BRIDGEPORT — The Bridgeport Exempted Village School District is welcoming a new assistant treasurer, who is getting ready to take the lead with Bulldog spirit.

On July 21, the board of education approved David Nelson as assistant treasurer next school year. He will be mentored under an interim treasurer provided by the East Central Ohio Educational Service Center, who will prepare Nelson for the role of treasurer.

Nelson is well known to the district, having worked for 13 years as a middle school and high school math teacher, and he demonstrated his knowledge of Bridgeport schools’ finances as a member of the insurance committee.

He thanked the board during a special meeting July 21.

“I am honored and truly humbled in the confidence you have in me,” he said. “I’ve seen firsthand the dedication, teamwork and love that goes into making this district great. More than a place of employment, it has been a home for my family and I.”

Nelson lives Bridgeport schools’ culture and values. He is eager to take on the challenges ahead while helping to ensure the district is using its resources wisely and for the maximum benefit of students.

“I’m committed to transparency, integrity and financial responsibility, and I look forward to working with the board, administration and staff to continue moving our district forward,” he said.

Nelson is committed to the district and its future, adding he will always give 100%.

“Bridgeport schools are amazing. I’ve really enjoyed working at Bridgeport schools. All three of my kids attend Bridgeport schools. The staff I work with, the administration and students are great, and the community’s very supportive.”

He said there are great things ahead for the district, most prominently the new multipurpose grant-funded facility to be dubbed “the Bridge” and currently under construction.

“I’m excited for my kids to be able to experience it. I look forward to being a part of that.”

Superintendent Brent Ripley said Nelson impressed the board with his top priority of doing good for Bridgeport. He said big improvements are on the horizon.

“You knocked it out of the park,” Ripley said. “What we’re doing here is special and we are thankful for your long-term dedication to this district. You’ve been a teacher in this district for 13 years, a coach, a member of our insurance and calendar committees, and are visible helping out when needed at various events. These qualities are exactly what we want from all employees, but also, from our treasurer.”

Board of education member Patrick McConnaughy agreed Nelson shined in the interview.

Karrie Puskas commended Nelson’s preparedness, adding he has demonstrated his fluency with the district finances.

“We have complete faith and trust in you,” she said.

Puskas also said Nelson has inspired many students, evident when students heard he was taking a new position and expressed concern he might be leaving the district.

Don Cash looks forward to seeing Nelson take on the role. He said the board welcomed the opportunity to hire from within the district.

“I have no doubt you can do the job,” he said. Cash added it is rewarding to have a job where one can find happiness and fulfillment.

Kori Rosnick said Nelson’s skill and his commitment to the district are evident.

“I am excited because I know how meticulous you are, and I know that you’re going to step into that role.”

Ryan Kreiter said Nelson would have the full support of the board.

“We’re patient, we listen, we ask questions. We’re collaborative as a team.”

Nelson will be taking over for treasurer Eric Meininger, who is moving to another position after five and a half years with Bridgeport schools. Meininger will always cherish his work as a Bulldog.

“I have nothing but great things to say about this district and board of education. I have enjoyed my time here, and they have some great things going on,” Meininger said.

Meininger had worked in an auditor’s office in Wheeling before stepping up to the treasurer’s post, where he handled the district money including the yearly budget of about $12 million and state and federal funds.

Meininger added he was always impressed by the culture at Bridgeport schools. He said the administrative team and the board of education are invested in the school district.

“It’s a close-knit group and they’re all-in for Bridgeport and they do what’s best for Bridgeport, starting from the top down,” he said. “I soon learned everyone works together and as a team to use our financial resources well, the taxpayer money, to do what’s best for students in this district.”

He is proud of his role in contributing as a team member in the $13.8 million federally funded grant through the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission for the Bridge. He said the district will be in good financial hands with Nelson.

“I have nothing but great things to say about David Nelson,” he said. “He has all the skills needed to take over this role, and I know he’ll do a great job. I know he’ll have fiscal success.”

Ripley praised Meininger for his five and a half years as treasurer.

“Mr. Meininger was hired as an assistant treasurer, was mentored like we are doing for Mr. Nelson, then hired on as the district treasurer. During his time, he has done incredible work for Bridgeport. Eric, I and the board were able to turn some major corners with the district’s finances by securing multiple grants, an increase with our school funding, using ESSER funding for long-term sustainability of our current building, and saving on employee insurance costs. Eric was a great fit for this district at a time when we needed a fresh vision. I’ve enjoyed every moment working with him and wish him the very best as he moves forward in his career. There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Meininger will quickly rise as one of the best treasurers in the state of Ohio as he has an incredible work ethic, is positive and always works under the power of the team.”